Canada encouraging expat professionals by loosening entry rules

Canada’s changing of its popular Express Entry ranking system is sure to attract increasing numbers of skilled expat looking for new life.

In early June, Canada’s immigration minister announced changes to its points-related Express Entry pool which allow applicants with siblings already in the country to add 15 points to their rankings. The rationale of the change is that immigrants seeking to build a new life will find integration easier when backed by family members. Having a spouse or common-law partner with family members already in Canada will also up applicants' ratings by 15 points.

Other changes include the removal of the need for applicants to register with the Canadian Jobs Bank, although those still wishing to do so can join the free job-finding service, and an extra 15 to 30 points can now be claimed by candidates with a good knowledge of the French language. The new points criteria won’t affect the rankings of those already in the system who don’t qualify for the newly-introduced extra points.

Canada’s immigration target for 2017 stands at 300,000 and includes a higher than usual number of economic migrants than in previous years. Its new strategy for encouraging skilled applicants by fast-tracking their work permits will now include a points addition of between 50 and 200 for those who’ve already received a qualifying job offer. In addition, candidates who’ve received a provincial nomination can claim 600 points.

The country is known for its efforts to attract incomers with skills relevant to economic growth, and qualified, experienced engineers are still in high demand following past shortages in the sector. Ultra-modern cities, scenic beauty and wide open spaces are just a few of the reasons for the country's popularity as an immigrant destination, with its top locations for expats including Ottawa with its excellent quality of life and a host of smaller cities and towns surrounded by stunning countryside.

Oakville in Ontario province is a hub for life science professionals, and St Albert is rated as the country’s best small town for its healthcare, schools, outdoor activities, and salaries. For families, Boucherville in Quebec has affordable housing and big city amenities surrounded by natural beauty and wildlife.